Waterways group formed

A waterways advisory group will provide recommendations to the State Government on the best model for waterways governance.

Docklands News understands the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) is working to establish the group.

The group would include representatives from industry and government groups, including the Melbourne Passenger Boat Association, Parks Victoria and the Yarra River Business Association.

It’s understood the group will report back to DEPI  within six months with recommendations on the future governance and management of the waterways.

Currently 17 authorities have jurisdiction over various parts of the Lower Yarra and Docklands waterways.

A DEPI spokesperson did not confirm that a waterways advisory group had been formed.

“DEPI is committed to the best possible management of public assets,” the spokesperson said.

“We have been meeting local groups to discuss the future management of the Lower Yarra and the Docklands waterways. Those discussions are ongoing.”